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Becoming the Witch: The Art of Magick
Embrace the Art of Magick & the Power that Has Always Been Inside You Providing a unique look at what witchcraft means in the 21st century, this lyrical book empowers you to become a divine weaver of life, be at one with nature's heartbeat, and connect to all things. With practical guidance and poetic encouragement, Danae Moon Thorp teaches you what every witch must know, including the elements, spells, tools, deities, rituals, and more. Becoming the Witch explains the complexities of witchcraft in a clear and creative way, giving you a richer understanding of how it all works. Learn to imbue every action, word, and ingredient of a spell with powerful energy that connects your heart, body, and mind to extraordinary possibilities. You'll also explore divine realms, delve into the history of magick, and find spiritual fulfillment in ordinary life. This book is your key to not just holding a wand, but also turning that wand into an extension of yourself.
408 pages, Paperback
Published September 8, 2021
17 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 25, 2021
Oh fuck no. I seriously hope no beginner witch picks this one up and no experienced witch who isn’t wiccan wastes their money on it
Among the top issues I had with this book - and I started skim reading because I just couldn’t deal with it anymore - are:
- picking gods from all over and using them as an ingredient
- “There is no doctrine invovled, no one tells you what to believe in” (kindle pos. 98) vs. “The moon is the high priestess of the night sky, the witch’s Goddess, your Goddess.” (kindle pos. 236)
- forcing the belief of the Triple Goddess onto the gods of different pantheons
- FUCKING OSTARA as a god and being possible Astarte AND Ishtar
- telling people to salt the earth for rituals more than once
Do I need to say more?
Among the top issues I had with this book - and I started skim reading because I just couldn’t deal with it anymore - are:
- picking gods from all over and using them as an ingredient
- “There is no doctrine invovled, no one tells you what to believe in” (kindle pos. 98) vs. “The moon is the high priestess of the night sky, the witch’s Goddess, your Goddess.” (kindle pos. 236)
- forcing the belief of the Triple Goddess onto the gods of different pantheons
- FUCKING OSTARA as a god and being possible Astarte AND Ishtar
- telling people to salt the earth for rituals more than once
Do I need to say more?
August 11, 2021
This book became extremely hard to read and I did not finish it. There are a lot of words but very little substance. Many of the spells and rituals are identical except for a single ingredient or chant which makes me understand how it reached 408 pages despite offering nothing new. I agree with other reviewers that the use of various deities does feel like it crosses a line several times. Finally, if I have to read about throwing salt onto the ground one more time I might scream.
August 9, 2022
I've read a decent amount of witchcraft books this year, and If I had to suggest a starter book for somebody interested in witchcraft, this would be the one.
The author does something few witchcraft books do: inspire your imagination! I can't emphasize how important that aspect of the craft is. I love the prose and the historical references. I definitely learned things. It was fun and interesting to read.
My only criticism is that this is highly influenced by Wicca practice, but there isn't much mention of it. This could be a good or bad thing. People have varying levels of comfort working with gods and goddesses. I do feel like the author could have more openly disclosed what tradition they learned from/actively participated in. Maybe a chapter that outlines the different traditions. Anything that might give a sense of "this is not the only way to do things."
The author does something few witchcraft books do: inspire your imagination! I can't emphasize how important that aspect of the craft is. I love the prose and the historical references. I definitely learned things. It was fun and interesting to read.
My only criticism is that this is highly influenced by Wicca practice, but there isn't much mention of it. This could be a good or bad thing. People have varying levels of comfort working with gods and goddesses. I do feel like the author could have more openly disclosed what tradition they learned from/actively participated in. Maybe a chapter that outlines the different traditions. Anything that might give a sense of "this is not the only way to do things."
September 17, 2021
A good book for a beginner or anyone interested in the practice of Wicca particularly the ritual and spell work. The author is excellent at conveying information concisely while also making it very readable. I understand that this book won't be for every Witch since it focuses heavily on Gods & Goddesses but I found it very interesting and liked the look into different cultures and their mythology.
August 8, 2021
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
First things first: Danae Moon Thorp has a very lyrical voice as a writer, and that adds a lot to the overall tone of this book. I think her voice and tone will speak very strongly to many readers, and for them, this book will be a wonderful read. It's an inspiring look at what it means to become and be a witch, including spells, a bit of history and folklore, and a lot of encouragement.
I do have to agree with some of the other reviewers who remarked that this is less "becoming a witch" and more "becoming a wiccan," and they are definitely not the same thing. As someone who doesn't include any deities in my practice, a large part of this book really didn't apply to me. So I would offer that caveat: if you're not a Wiccan, there's a lot in here that you might not connect with.
I'm also the type of reader who really just appreciates books that get to the point, rather than wrapping the point up in clouds of lyrical language, so I'm not really the audience for this book despite my interest in witchcraft.
This is all to say: just because this book didn't resonate with me, doesn't mean it won't resonate with other readers. There is a ton of information in "Becoming the Witch" and the lyrical, mystical tone Thorp brings to her work may be exactly what you're looking for.
3.5/5 stars
First things first: Danae Moon Thorp has a very lyrical voice as a writer, and that adds a lot to the overall tone of this book. I think her voice and tone will speak very strongly to many readers, and for them, this book will be a wonderful read. It's an inspiring look at what it means to become and be a witch, including spells, a bit of history and folklore, and a lot of encouragement.
I do have to agree with some of the other reviewers who remarked that this is less "becoming a witch" and more "becoming a wiccan," and they are definitely not the same thing. As someone who doesn't include any deities in my practice, a large part of this book really didn't apply to me. So I would offer that caveat: if you're not a Wiccan, there's a lot in here that you might not connect with.
I'm also the type of reader who really just appreciates books that get to the point, rather than wrapping the point up in clouds of lyrical language, so I'm not really the audience for this book despite my interest in witchcraft.
This is all to say: just because this book didn't resonate with me, doesn't mean it won't resonate with other readers. There is a ton of information in "Becoming the Witch" and the lyrical, mystical tone Thorp brings to her work may be exactly what you're looking for.
3.5/5 stars
August 27, 2021
Becoming the Witch is nicely written, but completely centered around Wicca.
You don't have to be Wiccan to be a witch, which is apparently unknown to the author.
There is a whole chapter about how to cast a circle, how important it is to cast a circle before literally everything you do, and that it's basically necessary for anyone who wants to call themselves a witch. Please, whoever is new to the craft - don't believe this. Casting a circle is not necessary. It is entirely up to you and what feels right for you.
I disagree with so many things in this book, because the author makes it sound like there is only this way to practice, her way.
Please, don't throw salt on the ground! Why would anyone want to salt the earth?!
What also bothered me is that she tosses with deities around her like free candy, which I find pretty disrespectful.
Please know before you pick up this book, it is a Wiccan book. If you want to know about Wicca, go for it, even though I personally think there are also better books on that out there. If you want knowledge about traditional witchcraft don't even bother with this book.
I've received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and wanted to thank the publisher.
The thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
You don't have to be Wiccan to be a witch, which is apparently unknown to the author.
There is a whole chapter about how to cast a circle, how important it is to cast a circle before literally everything you do, and that it's basically necessary for anyone who wants to call themselves a witch. Please, whoever is new to the craft - don't believe this. Casting a circle is not necessary. It is entirely up to you and what feels right for you.
I disagree with so many things in this book, because the author makes it sound like there is only this way to practice, her way.
Please, don't throw salt on the ground! Why would anyone want to salt the earth?!
What also bothered me is that she tosses with deities around her like free candy, which I find pretty disrespectful.
Please know before you pick up this book, it is a Wiccan book. If you want to know about Wicca, go for it, even though I personally think there are also better books on that out there. If you want knowledge about traditional witchcraft don't even bother with this book.
I've received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and wanted to thank the publisher.
The thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
December 31, 2021
A decent starter book where a number of things are brought to the reader. A bit of Wicca feelings (to me) placed in the book but other practitioners can get information from it.
March 3, 2022
I have been a practicing witch for over 20 years. I was drawn to this book after hearing Danae Moon Thorp speak during an online conference from the publisher. I wasn't sure exactly what I would get and feared it might be a simplistic intro to witchcraft book. It is not! While Thorp's book is laid out in a way that a beginner would benefit, as a solitary practitioner for many years, I found this book to be a beautifully organized way of reflecting upon the craft and one's personal journey with it. I thoroughly enjoyed how each chapter built upon the last and connected the dots from theory to practice within each.
While there are many spells available, they are not your run - of - the mill spells one often finds in such a book. Instead Danae Moon's spells give a solid foundation that can be woven within any practice. They give a fresh persepctive while allowing one to feel ownership over their spell crafting. What I found to be the most valuable part of this book was Danae's incredible knowledge. She gives ample reference to ancient mysticism and modern belief systems. Her layered depth of research makes connections across time and culture (showing the connectedness of our varying practices. Finally, her writing is beautiful, poetic and thought provoking! All of this along with a stellar book design, makes this book one of the most gorgeous, and definitely one of my most favorited books in my witch library!
While there are many spells available, they are not your run - of - the mill spells one often finds in such a book. Instead Danae Moon's spells give a solid foundation that can be woven within any practice. They give a fresh persepctive while allowing one to feel ownership over their spell crafting. What I found to be the most valuable part of this book was Danae's incredible knowledge. She gives ample reference to ancient mysticism and modern belief systems. Her layered depth of research makes connections across time and culture (showing the connectedness of our varying practices. Finally, her writing is beautiful, poetic and thought provoking! All of this along with a stellar book design, makes this book one of the most gorgeous, and definitely one of my most favorited books in my witch library!
July 12, 2023
This is definitely a Wiccan based book. Nothing is explained well and honestly encourages the beginner (which this book is written for) to be performing a number of spells well beyond the beginner scope. Without proper knowledge on a variety of topics, the beginner is at best confused and at worse, going to have a lot of problems down the road. If you’re going to write a book for beginners, you’ve gotta stand out against the thousands already in print.
The author also goes on and on without really saying much. There is a lot of fluff to the book. And some of this shouldn’t have been included such as the constant use of salt. The author actively tells the reader to put salt on the earth with no warning about the ramifications of this (salt is toxic and will take a very long time to disperse enough for plant life to thrive again). The other thing is the spells are iffy at best (consent and knowledge on what you’re doing are pretty questionable).
The author also goes on and on without really saying much. There is a lot of fluff to the book. And some of this shouldn’t have been included such as the constant use of salt. The author actively tells the reader to put salt on the earth with no warning about the ramifications of this (salt is toxic and will take a very long time to disperse enough for plant life to thrive again). The other thing is the spells are iffy at best (consent and knowledge on what you’re doing are pretty questionable).
July 7, 2021
Pick this book if you want to know the mechanisms and the nature of magic in witchcraft. But please remember to apply those principles through many spells in this text and you will have success. The author is very well aware of the so called "inner workings" during the spells and she will gently push you in the right direction. After this book we could only say that witchcraft is very practical. Some advanced rituals and spells are also given, like invocation of familiar spirit or calling undines. To present this information in a clear way is a very brave step since it is well known how much such knowledge is guarded. So I believe that this book will be pretty wanted in the occult world. Just few spells are done kinda in hurry, I wish them with more details. Final comment: Author, thank you for this brave and beautiful book!
August 2, 2021
Sadly, this is yet another Wicca book, branded as a generalized tome on the craft. There are a million books like this in the marketplace, the main reason I tell my clients to bypass the “trendy covered witch book” section, all together. The information within ranges from childish to basic to harmful (and downright incorrect).
I find it so hard to give books bad ratings, as I’m mindful of the fact that the author dedicated so much time and energy. However, I can’t, in good conscience even stay middle-of-the-road on this one. There are books out there filled with good information, this just isn’t one. I will say, as with most books like this, the cover is lovely.
Much gratitude to NetGalley and Llewellyn Worldwide for the advanced copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
I find it so hard to give books bad ratings, as I’m mindful of the fact that the author dedicated so much time and energy. However, I can’t, in good conscience even stay middle-of-the-road on this one. There are books out there filled with good information, this just isn’t one. I will say, as with most books like this, the cover is lovely.
Much gratitude to NetGalley and Llewellyn Worldwide for the advanced copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
September 7, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC for an exchange for an honest review.
"Becoming the witch" is a a good introductory book for anyone looking to delve into ritual and spell work. The book is very work heavy and the rituals develop as the reader goes on. This book may not offer much to a more experienced practitioner, but it does contain some interesting ideas and insights for new ways of working magically.
I must admit that, like others, I found that towards the end of the book it became very tasking to work through. The writing style may work for others, but in this case it was just too much for me. There were also a few minor errors in the history towards the beginning. Hopefully this will be caught before the final print.
"Becoming the witch" is a a good introductory book for anyone looking to delve into ritual and spell work. The book is very work heavy and the rituals develop as the reader goes on. This book may not offer much to a more experienced practitioner, but it does contain some interesting ideas and insights for new ways of working magically.
I must admit that, like others, I found that towards the end of the book it became very tasking to work through. The writing style may work for others, but in this case it was just too much for me. There were also a few minor errors in the history towards the beginning. Hopefully this will be caught before the final print.
January 27, 2022
As someone who knew very little about the practice of Witchcraft, Becoming the Witch: The Art of Magick has opened my eyes to the possibilities that this craft holds. Reading through this book, I was constantly amazed at how the writing resonated with me, Danae has been a practicing witch most of her life and also owns and runs a magickal store called Spellbox for over 20 yrs, the wisdom and experience from this shines through in this book. If you are curious about the craft, I highly recommend this book, it will teach you things you never knew you needed to know and also provides years of practical advice for people of all levels.
A great read that I'm sure I will reference for many a years to come.
A great read that I'm sure I will reference for many a years to come.
February 2, 2022
Becoming the Witch feels like stepping into a waking dream. It's the perfect antidote to the turmoil of the last two years. The poetry of the writing is exquisite and I found it invaluable in helping me sink down into the different layers of myself to find that sense of connection with the earth and the intangible. I found reading this really helped me with rediscovering that sense of everyday magic and beauty that used to come so effortlessly to me, but that the pandemic had destroyed. The rituals are soothing and rhythmic and there's such a breadth of information contained within that there's something for everyone to connect with. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who is looking to reconnect with that sense of magic deep within themselves.
February 16, 2022
I had the honor of interviewing Danae Moon Thorp about this book for my podcast. I read this book and LOVED it. As a practitioner of nearly 35 years, I found this book to be not only a fantastic jumping off point for new practitioners just discovering their path, but I also found it wonderful for seasoned practitioners, alike. Danae offers such unique perspectives on parts of our practices that many of us have been doing for decades. For new practitioners, its an in-depth instructional, and for seasoned practitioners, it offers a fresh new outlook on the rituals we've been performing for so long. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching; searching for their witch-identity, or just searching for something new.
August 6, 2021
This is a very Wiccan heavy book aimed for newer practitioners, however what concerns me is that it isn't necessarily encouraging, but also not dissuading some things that could be seen as cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation is mentioned once when talking about white sage and palo santo, however, never mentioned in regards to working with some of the gods or goddesses mentioned or practices related to them. I don't know, it just made me feel uncomfortable. It felt a little like mix and match your deities to suit your purposes.
Thank you to Llewellyn Publications and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC of this book, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Llewellyn Publications and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC of this book, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 21, 2022
Becoming the With: The Art of Magick
Is as the title suggests… “becoming” a witch. Geared to beginners in the craft of magic, the reader is easily guided through spells and rituals. There is is a lot of spell work to complete but it is the beginning journey the reader must complete in order to achieve the art of Magick.
The writer has a beautiful writing style that is lyrical and helps motivates the emerging witch. The writing is more than directorial, but rather a motivational approach to obtain the craft.
Thank you to the publishers Llewelyn Worldwide Ltd. and #NetGalley for the advanced readers ecopy of this book for which I had the pleasure of reading,
Is as the title suggests… “becoming” a witch. Geared to beginners in the craft of magic, the reader is easily guided through spells and rituals. There is is a lot of spell work to complete but it is the beginning journey the reader must complete in order to achieve the art of Magick.
The writer has a beautiful writing style that is lyrical and helps motivates the emerging witch. The writing is more than directorial, but rather a motivational approach to obtain the craft.
Thank you to the publishers Llewelyn Worldwide Ltd. and #NetGalley for the advanced readers ecopy of this book for which I had the pleasure of reading,
January 26, 2022
This is truly a magical journey of the mind, as we have been so emersed in the material world, it is time to call back the ancient wisdom. Witch means "wise women" a time to wake the feminine wisdom within all of us.
I love the little ritual in this book, it is a great time to be in tune with the truth.
Life is truly magical. Highly recommended for people to be ready to break the limits of the mind and old perceptions towards Witch. embrace the wisdom of mother nature and our inner light.
I love the little ritual in this book, it is a great time to be in tune with the truth.
Life is truly magical. Highly recommended for people to be ready to break the limits of the mind and old perceptions towards Witch. embrace the wisdom of mother nature and our inner light.
January 28, 2022
I love this book. Written with soul and imagination and so unique in voice and honesty, this witch’s story really makes clear the idea that all is connected. Becoming the Witch takes us into the world of spells, charms, symbolism, elements, seasons, sacredness, practical magic …and so much more. Jam packed with such interesting information and anecdotes about ancient beliefs and mythology too. I highly recommended this book for anyone who is interested in creating or starting a heartfelt journey and for any of us weaving a magical, purposeful, creative, positive path.
January 31, 2022
Thank you Danae moon thorp-
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in witchcraft.
I love that Danae’s writing empowers the reader, and combines beauty and the untamed essence that is Magick.
In this book, the reader learns that they are a witch, they are the wand that creates the change that they have always wanted.
Danaes writing guides the path, and gives permission to unleash the power within. Putting the golden threads into the readers hands to weave their own enchanted life.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in witchcraft.
I love that Danae’s writing empowers the reader, and combines beauty and the untamed essence that is Magick.
In this book, the reader learns that they are a witch, they are the wand that creates the change that they have always wanted.
Danaes writing guides the path, and gives permission to unleash the power within. Putting the golden threads into the readers hands to weave their own enchanted life.
February 16, 2022
A life changing book. We are honoured that Danae Moon, an accomplished witch has shared her wisdom, knowledge and magical secrets with us. Powerful spells to enhance your life together with enchanting rituals and potions to support your journey to live your authentic life in the world of magick are only part of this book. This book will open up many doors to give you the opportunity to stand in your own power as a confident witch.
Gillian Trevascus, Psychic Medium and Holistic Healer
Gillian Trevascus, Psychic Medium and Holistic Healer
September 6, 2021
Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher. My review opinion is my own.
I found this to be mainly focused on WIcca and Wicca practices. Not every witch is Wicca or wants to learn their practices but for a Wicca beginner I recommend this book. It is lengthly with spells, Wicca lore and how to begin for the very beginner Wicca witch. It was not for me at all but would appeal to a Wicca.
I found this to be mainly focused on WIcca and Wicca practices. Not every witch is Wicca or wants to learn their practices but for a Wicca beginner I recommend this book. It is lengthly with spells, Wicca lore and how to begin for the very beginner Wicca witch. It was not for me at all but would appeal to a Wicca.
November 21, 2021
This book could definitely be life altering. This is an excellent book for the beginner because it is very comprehensive and filled with everything you need to know as you start your journey in the craft. I thought this book was very useful to anyone who practices not just beginners. I added it to my personal library.
January 28, 2022
A compelling and insightful novel on the meaning and practises of true Magik known for centuries for any young or old pupil of magik training and practises. Contains great and insightful researched examples to describe in depth the authors knowledge and experiences. Her words are truly touching and memorable.
March 12, 2025
It's super incredibly wicca focused, despite not saying so. Not all witches are wiccans, and I feel like that makes the title misleading. HOWEVER - I loved that it included citations and footnotes. The resources listed are a fantastic jumping-off point for additional research into the concepts she introduces.
August 4, 2021
This book is written nicely. However it is pretty Wicca heavy. And served no purpose to me. I did enjoy some of what I read though. Definitely would be a good book to read if you want to get into the Wicca Witchcraft.
August 20, 2021
WAY too heavy for most beginners. It is also geared towards Wiccan practices, so it’s not for everyone. Personally I have no need for this book, but not everyone has my own beliefs and practices. Give it a read and determine whether it’s for you or not if you are interested in Wicca.
June 20, 2022
A very relaxing read. Witchcraft seems to be kind of like grounding & kindness meditations, setting intentions, looking inward. A lot less woo than I was expecting. Makes me want to read more and more about it!
September 18, 2021
A good introductory book if you are starting the Wiccan path. I found it well written and informative.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 28, 2022
Good beginners book if you are Wiccan or thinking about becoming Wiccan.
I am neither so this book wasn't for me.
I am neither so this book wasn't for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews